We mentioned in our review that the Micromax A70 was not upgradeable to 2.3, after we published that today, we got a call. According to our source Micromax the A70 will run Android 2.3 and there seems to be an easy way to do it. We are trying to get the process and will give a quick tutorial, possibly a video tutorial on how to go about it soon after we have tried it ourselves.
Also to make Fring Video calls, an easy fix was recommended by one of our readers. All you need to do it fire up Fring, then quit it , open the camera and switch to the front facing camera, and then reopen Fring, Voila Video calls will now work
Note : if Video calls don’t work : jump into bring settings and make sure video calls is ticked. Thats all , we tested it and it works fine.
Motorola has launched the successor to the mighty Defy, This one is called the Defy+ (read : Defy Plus). This device pics up where the Defy left off, adding a whole host of features to the mix.
Not only is the Defy+ water resistant, scratch resistant and dust proof, it also pack a whole list of spec bumps listed below.
It is expected to hit India in the coming months , and we will be on top of launches and videos as usual.
Key Features and Specifications:
Powered by Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) and features more than 250,000 apps from Android Market™
1GHz processor that runs 25 percent faster for efficient Web browsing and multitasking
Water resistant, scratch resistant and dust proof to withstand all that life throws your way
Features scratch resistant Corning Gorilla Glass
3.7-inch high-resolution touch screen display
Music Player connects you to all your favorite artists
MOTOBLUR lets users stay in touch with friends, providing quick access to social media accounts and live widgets directly from the home screen
Motorola Media Link allows users to sync their media content from their desktops at home or work
Loaded with the ability to create group emails and communication to stay in touch with friends
Adobe Flash Player 10 for uncompromised viewing of applications, content and videos
5MP camera with auto focus, flash and digital zoom
2GB internal; *2GB microSD card in box, expandable up to 32GB
Access to Google™ Apps (Google Maps™ 5.0 with Navigation, Google Talk™, Browsing)
1700mAH battery for 7.1 hours of talk time and 16 days in standby
It’s faster, smarter and richer – Motorola DEFY+ is now equipped with faster Web-browsing and the social networking tools you crave to stay connected wherever you go
Aug. 15, 2011
LIBERTYVILLE, Ill. – Aug. 15, 2011 – Live life to the fullest with the latest life proof smartphone from Motorola Mobility, Inc., Motorola DEFY™+. Building on the Motorola DEFY’s life proof heritage, Motorola DEFY+ offers exceptional protection from whatever life throws your way with its water resistant, scratch resistant and dust proof design (IP67). In addition, Motorola DEFY+ has a 1GHz processor that runs 25 percent faster and is more fun with the latest version of Android™ 2.3 (Gingerbread) delivering a smarter operating system and better battery life to fully enjoy your experiences.Motorola DEFY+ will be available in Asia, Europe and Latin America starting in early fall.
Water resistant, dust proof, and featuring scratch resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass, Motorola DEFY+ can survive a sudden rain shower, a day on the beach, an all-night party – or even a tough workout with the pre-loaded CardioTrainer application, which transforms the device into the perfect running mate. Its brilliant 3.7-inch high-resolution touch-screen display enables you to easily view and track your workout progress. Wherever your days – or nights – take you, Motorola DEFY+ is the life proof device that can keep up with your toughest demands and wildest adventures.
Motorola DEFY+ is faster than ever, keeping up with your on-the-go lifestyles so you can effortlessly browse the Web, stay updated with social networking sites on your homes screens and stream and download rich media content more quickly than before. Motorola DEFY+ offers an Adobe® Flash® 10-enabled browser for a rich web experience that allows users to watch their favorite movies or view videos on the Web.
Powered by Android 2.3 (Gingerbread), Motorola DEFY+ is smarter than ever. This new version of Android boasts a better battery life, a more intuitive user interface and improvements on the features you use most – including enhanced calendar and email features and home screen options. Users can make Motorola DEFY+ their own by organizing and personalizing their Application trays for easy and quick access to their most used tools, games and content.
Boredom proof your life; the richest experiences in entertainment and social media are always within reach with Motorola DEFY+. The Music Player lets you access and share your favorite music. You can also stream your favorite music straight from your desktops at home or work, with Motorola Media Link. Motorola DEFY+ also features Google Talk™ tokeep you connected with friends and colleagues, while built in apps like the *Zinio™ e-magazine service allow you to keep up with favourite publications on-the-go. Entertainment doesn’t stop there: Motorola DEFY+ also features a 5MP camera with flash, digital zoom and auto focus, letting users capture the best of their social life and create their very own entertainment whatever the conditions.
“Motorola DEFY+, our latest life proof smartphone, delivers the endurance and design strength to keep up with even the most demanding lifestyles, along with the social and entertainment capabilities that put friends and fun in easy reach,” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, portfolio and device product management, Motorola Mobility. “We designed Motorola DEFY+ with all the smartphone features you need for a demanding lifestyle.”
Smart Accessories
A suite of smart accessories ensures users get the most from the Motorola DEFY+. Available accessories include Vehicle Dock, Bluetooth Headset, Bluetooth Car Kit, Portable Power, and Car Charger.
Key Features and Specifications:
Powered by Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) and features more than 250,000 apps from Android Market™
1GHz processor that runs 25 percent faster for efficient Web browsing and multitasking
Water resistant, scratch resistant and dust proof to withstand all that life throws your way
Features scratch resistant Corning Gorilla Glass
3.7-inch high-resolution touch screen display
Music Player connects you to all your favorite artists
MOTOBLUR lets users stay in touch with friends, providing quick access to social media accounts and live widgets directly from the home screen
Motorola Media Link allows users to sync their media content from their desktops at home or work
Loaded with the ability to create group emails and communication to stay in touch with friends
Adobe Flash Player 10 for uncompromised viewing of applications, content and videos
5MP camera with auto focus, flash and digital zoom
2GB internal; *2GB microSD card in box, expandable up to 32GB
Access to Google™ Apps (Google Maps™ 5.0 with Navigation, Google Talk™, Browsing)
1700mAH battery for 7.1 hours of talk time and 16 days in standby
Availability
Motorola DEFY+ will be available in Asia, Europe and Latin America starting in early fall.
Viewsonic has unveiled the new ViewPad 10Pro, which not only has a Intel atom Z670 1.5GHz processor but also the ability to dual boot Windows 7 and Android OS 2.2 at the same time. The device is a 10 inch slate that boasts a battery life of 8 hours thanks to the ULV processor.
We listened to our customers. We made the ViewPad 10pro dual OS interface as quick and intuitive as possible, while partnering with industry CPU leader Intel to deliver the latest in design and innovation across all fronts,”
-ViewSonic VP of business development, Michael Holstein
Specs Include
Intel Oak Trail Z670 1.5 GHz
Weight 800G
10.1″ WSVGA 1024 x 600 px LED Backlit Capacitive Multitouch Display
ViewSonic Brings Dual OS Intel Atom Processor-Based Tablet to Market
ViewPad® 10pro Delivers the Best of Both Worlds in a 10.1? Tablet, Offering a True Dual Windows® and AndroidTM OS Experience
WALNUT, CA–(Marketwire – Aug 15, 2011) – ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of computing, consumer electronics and communications solutions, today announced its latest 10.1? Windows® and Google Android™ dual OS tablet — the ViewPad 10pro.
The ViewPad 10pro is one of the first tablet solutions to be powered by the new 1.5GHz Intel®Atom™ processor Z670. Designed specifically for tablets, this new CPU minimizes power consumption, while enabling smaller and thinner product designs. Partnered with a 1024×600 capacitive multi-touch panel, ViewPad 10pro users can enjoy impressive Full HD 1080p video playback, fast Internet browsing and longer battery life, without sacrificing on performance. Paired with 2GB of integrated memory, the ViewPad 10pro is the optimal mobile computing powerhouse.
“We listened to our customers. We made the ViewPad 10pro dual OS interface as quick and intuitive as possible, while partnering with industry CPU leader Intel to deliver the latest in design and innovation across all fronts,” said Michael Holstein, vice president of business development, ViewSonic.
Tailored for business users, the ViewPad 10pro makes it even easier to enjoy a dual OS experience within a single tablet. Android 2.3 runs as an application on top of the Windows 7 operating system so users need to simply tap on the Android icon to make a seamless switch between business productivity and ultimate entertainment. Throw in the built-in Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR, an HDMI out for content sharing, a 1.3 megapixel built-in front camera and a high capacity battery for up to 8 hours of battery life, and you get the ViewPad 10pro — a fully optimized, true dual OS tablet to keep users connected.
“The new Intel Atom processor-based tablet from ViewSonic is a cool, and distinguished product that brings a personalized and flexible experience,” said Bill Kircos, general manager of marketing for Intel’s Netbook and Tablet Group. “Our Intel platform supports multiple operating systems, and this tablet shows how consumers can move between Windows and Android experiences in a way that offers rich graphics, high-definition audio, easy Internet browsing and longer battery life in a slick form factor.”
To ensure the ViewPad 10pro grows with each person’s individual needs, the device offers expandable storage options via a micro SD card slot for up to 32GB of additional space. The dual OS ViewPad 10pro is available in two configurations — with Windows 7 Professional (with a 32GB SSD hard drive) and Android 2.3 for an ESP of $699, or with Windows 7 Home Premium (with a 16GB SSD hard drive) and Android 2.3 for an ESP of $599. A custom docking station accessory is also available for an ESP of $59. Both tablet configurations will be widely available in late August, with limited numbers currently available.
For more information on ViewSonic’s products, please visit ViewSonic.com or follow ViewSonic on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
Vizio on Monday announced that its budget/ affordable 8-inch tablet will be available worldwide through its retailers by the end of this month. The device runs on Gingerbread and will sell without contract for under US$ 300.
VIZIO set out to build an innovative tablet that breaks new ground and addresses the gaps in current offerings in the market. The VIZIO Tablet offers a superior multimedia experience with its three speaker design, home theater integration with IR, and a perfect size for typing, eBooks, gaming and portability. These innovations and our ground breaking price push the category forward and deliver on our brand promise of Entertainment Freedom for All
VIZIO’s New 8″ Tablet Delivers Knock Out Video, Audio and App-Based Entertainment at Sub-$300 Price Point
VIZIO Tablet to shake up the marketplace by offering intuitive tablet experience at a price point that extends availability to the masses
Unique three-speaker design delivers stereo audio in both landscape and portrait modes
Control Your Entire Home Theater with the VIZIO Tablet’s built-in universal remote control app
Built-in 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth® capabilities offer optimum connectivity with multiple devices
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ – VIZIO, America’s #1 LCD HDTV company, announced today the new VIZIO 8? Tablet with WiFi is arriving at retailers nationwide. As part of VIZIO’s continued commitment to deliver great technology at a superior value, the sleek, feature-filled, Android-powered VIZIO Tablet is now available at Sam’s Club, Walmart, Costco, Amazon, and other VIZIO retailers at a breakthrough price of $299.
The VIZIO Tablet features VIZIO Internet Apps® Plus which combines the latest technologies with a unified, easy-to-use and fun user interface across select future VIZIO HDTV’s, Blu-ray® players and other devices — further differentiating the sleek VIZIO Tablet. In addition, the new Tablet is able to control nearly every element of a user’s home theater with a universal remote app and includes a built-in HDMI port with HDCP support for content protected HD playback on the big screen.
“We are excited that VIZIO is listening, once again, to what the marketplace is asking for with a high performance sub $300 Tablet,” said Tim Farmer, Costco. ”VIZIO’s reputation is built on affordable technology and entertainment and this product is expected to generate a strong consumer response.”
By offering cutting edge technology and exceptional features at a competitive category price, the VIZIO Tablet is ideal for a wide range of users. With support for Adobe® Flash®, casual gamers, movie, TV and music enthusiasts are able to enjoy rich content and applications on the go. It also comes equipped with a unique three-speaker configuration, strategically placed for stereo sound in landscape or portrait mode.
Additionally, parents looking to entertain their children on-the-go can quickly access the Android Market™ which gives access to hundreds of thousands of apps, including educational programs, games and eBooks.**
With back-to-school season in full swing, students will also find the sleek VIZIO Tablet an ideal and fun compliment to a busy year as it makes checking email, news and social networks as simple as ever. Multiple storage options make saving assignments and downloading music a breeze with a MicroSD™ slot that allows consumers the freedom to expand memory up to 32GB for optimal organization and entertainment.
“VIZIO set out to build an innovative tablet that breaks new ground and addresses the gaps in current offerings in the market,” said Matt McRae, Chief Technology Officer, VIZIO. “The VIZIO Tablet offers a superior multimedia experience with its three speaker design, home theater integration with IR, and a perfect size for typing, eBooks, gaming and portability. These innovations and our ground breaking price push the category forward and deliver on our brand promise of Entertainment Freedom for All.”
Reliance Communications has introduced a tablet and bundled it with attractive monthly plans. Available across all Reliance World and Reliance Mobile showrooms in India the Tablet features a very low price of INR 12,999/-.
The 3G and WiFi-enabled Android tablet that works on RCom’s IP-based 3G network across 333 towns including Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. The tablet is manufactured by China based ZTE and has 512 MB RAM along with AGps, a 7 inch Screen and Android 2.3.
Reliance Communications has always been a pioneer in taking bold steps to innovate and re-invent the telecom ecosystem in the country. The launch of Reliance 3G Tab is in line with this principle,”
The device will support Android features like push mail and will include office softwares like Docs-to-Go etc. Reliance will also give a 4GB card in the Bundle and the device can read put 32GB.
We are trying to get a hands on with the tablet for your pleasure.
Huawei impressive 9.9mm unibody construction device, The Vision, has appeared in a demo video made by the company. iGyaan also has exclusive information that the device is launching in India in October with a price bracket of INR 15k . The device features a Qualcomm 1 GHz MSM 8255-1 Snapdragon chipset and a 3.7″ high res capacitive display.
The device also features a 5 MP camera at the back with 720p video capabilities, a front facing camera for Skype et video calls and a 1400mah battery pack. Other features include 512MB of RAM, 2GB of ROM, Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP support, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, a microSD slot that can take cards up to 32GB, a microUSB 2.0 port, Android 2.3 Gingerbread and a 3D UI.
MSI has announced two new tablets in India with its WinPad Enjoy Series of Tablets. Powered by a 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and 512 Mb of RAM the tablets are full of interesting specs
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® 2.1
7″ 800 x 480 (16:9), 10” 1024 x 768 (4:3) display with multi-touch capability
Android™ 2.3.3 Gingerbread operating system
Adobe® Flash® 10.1 support
Dual 2 MP camera
512 MB DDR3 RAM
ALS (Ambient light sensor), G-Sensor (Accelerometer)
E-Compass, Vibration, GPS (Optional)
Storage 4 GB internal storage space
I/O Ports Mini-USB, mini-HDMI, 3.5 mm 2 in 1 headphone + microphone jack
Micro-SD card slot (Max 32 GB)
Battery Life Target 4-5 hours
Rechargeable Lithium Battery 3.7V/4000mAh
The tablets are also touted as the worlds lightest tablets. The tablets are priced very competitively with the 7 inch at Rs. 13,999/- and the 10 inch at Rs. 14,999/- making them the first tablets below the 15k mark to be launched in India. If you don’t consider the unbranded ones.
Enjoy series has been designed keeping the ultimate end-user in mind; it offers productivity while on the go and, provides more ways to have fun and connect with friends. Whether surfing the Web or even enjoying the latest hit movies.
–Eric Kuo, General Manager, MSI India
We are trying to get our hands on the devices so you can expect a full review shortly.
You can also order the tablets directly from the MSI India website.
NEW DELHI, Aug. 05, 2011 — After creating a footprint in the Notebook & PC components category, MSI India is set to redefine the Tablet revolution by launching their latest Enjoy series tablets in India today. The Enjoy series would be available in two variants – Enjoy 10 (a 10 inch Tablet) & Enjoy 7 (a 7 inch Tablet), priced at Rs 14,999 & Rs 13,999 respectively.
Last year, MSI had also unveiled first Windows 7 based tablets in India – the WINPAD.
The new Enjoy series provide breakthrough brilliant new design and style and exceptionally fast performance with its 1.2 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and 512 Mb of RAM. This will translate into faster web-browsing, movie experience, video calls, gaming etc. ARM Cortex-A8 is a low power, high performance processor solution. Powerful hardware accelerators provide optimized hardware performance for high-end application.
Commenting on the latest offering, Eric Kuo – General Manager, MSI India said “Enjoy series has been designed keeping the ultimate end-user in mind; it offers productivity while on the go and, provides more ways to have fun and connect with friends. Whether surfing the Web or even enjoying the latest hit movies”.
The slim and light design of the Winpad Enjoy makes it easy for sharing the best moments with your family and friends. All the functions of a computer: Your apps, the internet, photos, music, videos, eBooks, 3D games and email. Additionally, with front and rear cameras, people can also make live video calls using a variety of available video chat applications available in the Android Market. Android market place to instantly access hundreds of thousands of apps.
The tablet showcases the innovations of the Gingerbread user experience – including an interactive, customizable home screen with moveable widgets, notifications and tabbed browsing.
Other key features of the Enjoy series include:
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® 2.1 • 7″ 800 x 480 (16:9), 10” 1024 x 768 (4:3) display with multi-touch capability • Android™ 2.3.3 Gingerbread operating system • Adobe® Flash® 10.1 support • Dual 2 MP camera · 512 MB DDR3 RAM · ALS (Ambient light sensor), G-Sensor (Accelerometer), E-Compass, Vibration, GPS (Optional) · Storage 4 GB internal storage space · I/O Ports Mini-USB, mini-HDMI, 3.5 mm 2 in 1 headphone + microphone jack • Micro-SD card slot (Max 32 GB) · Battery Life Target 4-5 hours • Rechargeable Lithium Battery 3.7V/4000mAh
You can also order the tablet online, in India with just a click on a tab. Just visit the website: http://in.msi.com/
About MSI:
Founded in August 1986, MSI (Micro Star International) is a world-class leading company specializes in the design and manufacture of mainboards, graphic cards and notebooks. MSI is now the world No.1 graphic card manufacturer and in the Top-3 in mainboards. According to Displaybank, MSI was the No.4 Netbook supplier in 2008 and being ranked as Top 10 NB Brand in the worldwide market based on shipments. MSI Computer India Pvt. Ltd. initiated its local presence as a licensed office in 2005 and has become a fully functional subsidiary in 2007.
One of the Smartest Smart Phones to hit our country, The Samsung Galaxy S2 has gathered a lot of public attention. But, does it stand up to the challenge put out by Day-to-Day Smart-Phone use? Lets Find Out!
BUILD QUALITY, HARDWARE & DESIGN
The Galaxy S2 has a nice design, a sleek body and extra tough glass. But the build quality of the phone may not be up to the mark. The device features a total plastic construction that defies all laws of mobile phone existence. At just 8.5mm thick the device boasts an extremely slim profile. The back panel/cover is a flimsy piece of plastic that is fidgety to remove and put back on and also rattles when the phone is shaken.
The screen on the other hand is extremely tough, it also resists scratches and impacts without a question in mind. Overall, the build is solid, the plastics don’t bend easily and are not cheap to look at either. But are not nearly enough when you compare it with what you pay for the device.
In terms of hardware the two major things working for the Indian version of the Samsung Galaxy S2 are
Super Amoled Plus Screen – 480 x 800 px – 4.3 inches
1.2 GHZ dual core processor
The performances of these two major hardware components can be seen from the get go, and are attracting people towards the GS2. There is also 1 GB of RAM, giving an effective 853MB for usage (we really don’t know why only 853 is there totally). There is no NFC on the Indian Samsung Galaxy S2, and why would you need it anyway? The 8 MP rear camera with full HD video recording, a 2 MP front camera, 1650mah battery. You can also check out the full Spec Sheet Here
CAMERA AND MULTIMEDIA
The Camera on the S2 is brilliant; the screen viewfinder makes it even better. The colors are projected to the screen as-is, and are captured beautifully with the 8MP lens. The camera is fast to focus and has great exposure values. Tap to focus lets you select you subject and one click capture brings you an experience that’s hard to replicate. The camera app is also packed with a long list of settings and effects you can tweak and play around with. Shooting modes, scene modes, effects, image size, exposure values, white balance, noise reduction and anti shake to name a few.
Macro mode is exceptionally great as it can capture close-ups with great detail. There is also a timer, ISO settings, Metering selection, blink detection and geo-tagging. The S2 has a fully loaded camera app and a great camera lens to go with it. Overall performance of the camera is easily notable and can replace your point and shoot camera for day-to-day use. The flash is bright and has a great field of coverage.
Video capture at 1080p is smooth and without frame drops, although you can notice the autofocus on the camera struggle during the video recording output. Videos are clean and the microphone picks up sound just great. Video is so good in fact we actually shot an unboxing video on full HD with the Samsung Galaxy S2 – Check it HERE
Sounds from the speaker are actually louder than we expected. Audio quality is clear and speech notions can be understood easily. Why we emphasize on speech is because you will be watching a lot of videos and movies on the STUNNING AMOLED PLUS display. It is the best possible display from Samsung to date. With amazing depths of color and a great resolution (480 x 800) the display is very vivid. Colors are bold and there is no washout even at greater viewing angles. Some may argue that the colors on the screen are not what they appear to be, and the AMOLED screen gives a heightened look to a normal display/video.
The included earphones are not a great match with the S2, the bass on the earphones is poor, watching movies or listening to music. If you enjoy good depth, you wont enjoy the included earphones. The placement of the main speaker can also be bothersome, especially when you hold the device in landscape to watch videos or play games. You will find your fingers covering up the main speaker for a total loss of sound.
PHONE AND MESSAGING
Nice large dialer, good speaker, strong mic and excellent network performance make the Galaxy S2 a great phone aswell. We tested the phone capability over extended periods of use and failed to get one reason to complain about the device. It was pure performance for the phone through out.
The Keyboard on the GS2 is well spaced out in portrait and is very responsive during those long messaging sessions. You also have a huge list of settings that you can modify to make the keyboard a complete unit for you. From auto text to auto replace, modifiers and word learning, the keyboard is simply intelligent. You can also switch to the included Swype keyboard for a faster input experience. In Landscape, typing is fast and efficient and the keys are wide enough to compile long emails without breaking a sweat.
DATA & INTERNET
Getting a smartphone like this? Expect to get a 3G data plan if you don’t already have one. This phone turns you into an “on the go data monster”. With the constant need to feed information into the device the unit comes ready to handle all sorts of online activity, from social feeds directly on your homescreen to business mails in a secret box. You get the latest news, weather information and stock prices without ever needing to install an app or setup the device. 3G / HSDPA performance is somewhat good, we found that the device would drop the connection to the server and would require a restart of the data service from the settings app. We have never faced a similar issue with any other Android device an it appears to be a glitch in the software somewhere. Another thing to note, is that when the device is in this suspended data connection mode, the back of the phone starts to heat up incredibly fast which leads to an equally fast battery drain.
Wi-Fi Hotspot, also acts up (due to the network error we presume) and you will find your self constantly struggling with the error messages on the portable hotspot window.
BATTERY LIFE
If you haven’t read the section above we suggest you go ahead and read it. The battery life is largely affected by data mismanagement.
Values
2G
3G
3G with Error
Talk Time
upto 7 Hours
4.5 hours
1 hour
Standby time
36 Hours
24 hours
6 Hours
Web Browsing
8-9 hours
4-5 hours
–
Video Streaming
4 Hours
2 Hours
–
Music Streaming
14 hours
6 hours
–
Wi-Fi Values stand more or less the same with 2G data
GAMING
We though we would include this section just to clarify a lot of questions. While the device is perfectly capable of running high graphic games, you will not find us showing you videos of any such games for one simple reason. They don’t work on the device. Most games like Fast 5, NFS shift Asphalt, Assassins creed, Settlers crash on start up and some don’t show visuals. This is possibly a software -hardware integration glitch and perhaps the games are not designed to run on dual core smart phones. Other games like Angry Birds -All, Gun Brothers and our new favorite Age of the Zombies work perfect and without any issues.
DUAL CORE
The Samsung Galaxy S2 is India’s second phone to boast a dual core processor, and after our previous let down, we a happy to say that Samsung has managed to utilize the dual core- Android combo perfectly and has made it possible for the end user to enjoy the total experience. The phone is not only fast and responsive it is a super performer. All visuals play smooth, graphics and renders are fast all of this with tons of ram to spare. The Galaxy S2 also uses Android suspend multitasking which enables you to pause your ongoing app in real time and switch to another app, and then come back to the previous app without loosing data, or in our case lives.
There is the heating issue that is causing battery loss but we believe its due to the data glitch and can be resolved by switching data modes, or turning on data as and when required (which can be troublesome, but is a quick fix until Samsung can fix it). If you haven’t already seen the benchmarks, check them out here.
CONCLUSION
The Samsung Galaxy S2 is highest spec’d phone available in India through official channels, its thin and light, its got a beautifully vivid display and a dual core processor that’s on steroids. The Galaxy S2 is ready to perform from the get-go and looks good doing it. Yes its got a flimsy looking build and some overheating issues. But why do we feel okay looking past those? Possibly because poor build usually leads to a damaged display, but in this case the gorilla glass wont let that happen. As far as the battery drain- data error issue, Samsung is already working on pushing an update that will fix these issues.
[xrr rating=4.25/5 label=”We Rate The Galaxy S 2 : ” imageset=shiny_yellow_star display_as=fraction_stars]
Over 15,000,000,000 apps have been downloaded by some 200,000,000 users from the Apple App Store. In total, the App Store has around 425,000 applications available for sale. Last Thursday, Google announced that over 6,000,000,000 app downloads had been made by some 135,000,000 users form the Google Marketplace, which has around 250,000 applications available for sale.
The growth of Android is spurred on by the release of new Android smart phones and tablets in the market. While the tablets might not be able to dislodge the iPad from the top spot, the smart phones are giving the iPhone a run for its money. Google CEO Larry Page said that new Android devices are activated at a rate of around 50,000 per day. Despite the number of activations, the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch still lead the pack.
At present, Apple’s iOS remains the number one mobile operating system but speculation is ripe that its just a matter of time before Android overtakes iOS to become the leading mobile operating system.
McAfee has issued a Press Release regarding its Mobile Security and WaveSecure security softwares for smartphones and tablets on the Android Platform. Read the full PR for more information.
McAfee today announced the it is extending its mobile device portfolio for consumers with McAfee Mobile Security and McAfee WaveSecure Tablet Edition. These mobile device offerings change the mobile security landscape by offering security safeguards that help consumers secure their mobile devices for personal use, commerce and work.
According to a mobile security report released last week by McAfee and Carnegie Mellon University titled, “Mobility and Security: Dazzling Opportunities, Profound Challenges,” respondents named their top three security concerns to be the loss of personal or work data through the accidental loss of a device, physical theft of the device, or loss of their data due to their device “crashing.” In addition, close to half of all respondents said they were using their smartphones both for personal use and work, demonstrating that consumers want more than just personal device security.
McAfee Mobile Security software, available for both smartphones and tablets, provides a comprehensive mobile security solution by combining three leading McAfee mobile security products: WaveSecure, VirusScan Mobile and SiteAdvisor® for Android. It is ideal for users who want protection for their data and privacy in the event of loss or theft, protection against the growing threats of viruses and spyware targeting mobile devices as well as protection from Web based threats, such as phishing sites that probe for personal and sensitive information.
With McAfee Mobile Security, consumers can now access the following features and functionality in a single download:
Back-up and restore data to helpprotect sensitive information and irreplaceable photos. Even if the device is missing, it can be backed up before it is wiped clean of information.
Protection against misuse (such as excessive phone charges) as well as safeguarding personal data with remote locking capabilities
An audible alarm to help users find the device or disrupt a thief, and or pop-up a notification with instructions for returning the device
Remotely remove data from a lost or stolen device via the McAfee Webportal, mobile Web portal or via a SMS message from a buddy device
24/7 real-time anti-malware protection against viruses, worms and spyware, Trojan horses and battery sapping malware
Protection from malicious Web sites, phishing, identity theft, and credit card fraud when shopping online. SiteAdvisor software for Android provides color coded site ratings appear right next to the search results, allowing Android users to confidently browse and search the mobile Web.
Management of mobile device protection allows consumers to quickly execute needed security tasks, backup, locate, wipe, etc. via the McAfee Web portal and simple device interface
All backed by McAfee Labs with its 24/7 global presence and dedicated team of threat researchers
The WaveSecure Tablet Edition offers Android users with WiFi the ability to find their missing device with alarm and location tracking, prevent misuse with remote lock and wipe and preserve important memories and personal data with remote backup, even from a lost or misplaced device. Users can also trigger an audible alarm to help them find the device or disrupt a thief, and send a brief SMS message with instructions for returning it.
“With device growth eclipsing PCs, consumers need tools to not only protect their personal information, but also to provide safeguards for business data should they decide to use that device for work,” said Todd Gebhart, senior vice president and general manager of consumer, small business and mobile, McAfee. “It’s far too easy to leave a mobile device in a cab or at the airport, which can mean lost photos, contacts and other important content. Also, the threats to mobile devices are in many ways the same as in the online world. Beyond device lost or theft, users can be hacked, infected or phished on a mobile device just as easily as they can online.”
Availability and Pricing:
McAfee Mobile Security and WaveSecure software are available in the following languages; Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Dutch, English, French (European and Canadian), German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (European and Brazilian), Swedish, Spanish (European and Mexican) and Russian. McAfee Mobile Security software is available as an annual subscription of $29.99 USD per year from McAfee and the Android Market. McAfee WaveSecure software is available as an annual subscription of $19.99 USD from McAfee and the Android Market.
Looks like a Samsung Galaxy Pro competitor from Samsung competitor – The LG Optimus Pro is on sale in Italy and coming to the rest of the world soon. Known specs include Android 2.3 gingerbread a 2.8 inch QVGA touchscreen and a 3.2 MP camera. All of this will run on a 800MHZ processor and 256mb of RAM. The device has a nice Candy Bar design and should fare well against competition if the pricing is right. Currently it sells for €179 which seems a tad bit high.
The latest Skype update enables video calling on Android device, but is limited to a strict number of devices. The folks over at DroidLife have found a way to make it work on your new Android 2.3 devices including the HTC Sensation and the Samsung Galaxy S2.
Simply Download the Cracked Skype from the link on droidlife and copy it to your device and install it. (Make sure third party apps are enabled in your settings)
Oh yeah we tested it on the HTC Sensation, and it works flawlessly.
UPDATE: Big update we got the new Skype app up and running and making calls on the Mi 410 from SPICE. A video coming up soon.
Sony Ericsson has added two new smartphones to their lineup this time. Announced at CommunicAsia 2011 in Singapore these devices will ship in Q3 to select markets.
Sony Ericsson Xperia Active takes a direct stab at the Moto Defy with its water resistive attributes, Sony ericsson also promises the screen to perform porperly even when the device is wet
Dust-proof and water-resistant design
3-inch, 320×480-pixel Reality Display that works even if there’s water on the screen or if your fingers are wet
heart rate and pulse monitor (ANT+ wireless technology)
preloaded sports apps
arm case
1GHz processor
5-megapixel camera
HD video capture
Bluetooth
GPS.
The Sony Ericsson Xperia Ray is a higher spec’d non-rugged phone it has:
Aluminum chassis
9.4mm thick
four different colors: black, gold, white, and pink
3.3-inch
854×480-pixel Reality Display
Mobile Bravia Engine (noise reduction, sharpness, color management, and contrast enhancement)
8.1-megapixel camera
Sony Exmor R CMOS -16x digital zoom, aperture f/2.4, face detection/recognition, smile detection
720p HD video.
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, aGPS
As always we will try and get the accurate launch details for you guys as and when we get them.
Sleek, beautiful smartphone with stylish aluminium frame
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine with 8.1mp camera and Exmor R™ for mobile
Latest Android platform for smartphones (Gingerbread 2.3) with Facebook inside Xperia™
22 June 2011, Singapore – Sony Ericsson today announced Xperia™ ray – a stunning new smartphone alongside CommunicAsia 2011 in Singapore. With a 3.3” screen and running the latest Android platform for smartphones (Gingerbread 2.3), the phone packs in a powerful 1Ghz processor, Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, a 8.1mp camera with Exmor R™ for mobile and HD video functionality. At only 9.4mm thin, Xperia™ ray incorporates market leading design for which Sony Ericsson has become known.
To add to a full set of specifications, the phone incorporates a front facing camera and a scratch resistant screen with excellent resolution and brightness and integrated touch keys. Sony Ericsson’s unique integration of Facebook inside Xperia™ delivers a unique consumer experience for greater social interaction. In combination with the Google services, as well as access to over 200,000 Apps via the Android Market™, it provides a solid and entertaining smartphone foundation.
Daniel Sandblom, Global Product Marketing Manager, Sony Ericsson said: “We expect Xperia™ ray to appeal to consumers who are looking for a combination of beautiful design and a rich feature set. We are able to uniquely deliver this with a combination of premium materials and multimedia features provided by Sony.”
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ ray will be available globally in selected markets, including Japan, from Q3 2011.
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ ray at a glance.
*Please note that all services mentioned below may not be available in every market.
*According to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique. Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configurations, and phone usage.
Networks
UMTS HSPA 900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS HSPA 850, 1900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
In the kit
1500mAh battery,
Stereo portable handsfree
4GB microSD™ memory card
Charger
Micro USB cable for charging
Synchronisation and file transfer
User documentation
(LiveSound™ in selected markets)
Smart Extras™ appropriate for Xperia™ ray:
LiveSound™: Available as part of the package with Xperia™ ray in selected markets, thisprovides consumers with the best possible audio experience combined with a stylish, tangle-free design. Theheadphones also allow consumers to remotely access applications from the phone through LiveKey™ control, which gives consumers direct access to their applications with a simple push of a button.
LiveDock™ gives consumers the ability to seamlessly integrate their Sony Ericsson smartphone into their home. By simply connecting their smartphone to the docking station, consumers will be able to easily launch applications from the Android Market™ and charge their phones at the same time.
Dust proof and water resistant smartphone powered by Android™
Scratch resistant multi touch screen with wet finger tracking
All the applications for your active life, including on-screen heart rate monitoring through ANT+
22 June 2011, Singapore –Sony Ericsson today announced Xperia™ active, a compact smartphone targeting consumers with an active lifestyle, in conjunction with CommunicAsia 2011 in Singapore. With a 3” screen and running the latest Android platform for smartphones (Gingerbread 2.3), the phone packs Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine, a 5mp camera with HD video functionality, and a powerful 1Ghz processor. Xperia™ active is dust proof and water resistant* and uniquely incorporates wet finger tracking, to ensure the phone works perfectly when either the screen or a user’s fingers are wet.
The phone comes pre-loaded with sports apps that enable consumers to easily track their fitness levels. Users can set their ideal training route using the built-in GPS, Barometer and Compass. On-screen heart rate and pulse can be monitored in realtime (enabled by ANT+ wireless networking technology), while the iMapMyFitness app can monitor day to day performance. Additionally, Facebook inside Xperia™ allows consumers to share their progress and experiences with friends.
Fredrik Månsson, Global Product Marketing Manager, Sony Ericsson said: “Xperia™ active is the ultimate smartphone for an active life. Not only is it packed with all the features and applications consumers need for a worry free mobile life, it also comes with a set of accessories that make it fun and easy for them to take it everywhere, whatever their daily plans are.”
Maria Sharapova, a three time grand slam winning tennis player added: “I love this smartphone because it perfectly fits both my professional and personal needs. It keeps me in touch with my friends as I travel the world on the pro tour and tracks my fitness both on and off the court.”
Extras included in the box to further build the consumer experience:
One extra exchangeable soft touch back cover
Detachable ear hooks for the portable handsfree active headset
Wrist strap to keep the phone close at all times
An arm case for use during a workout
2GB memory card to save all your special moments
Micro USB cable for charging and computer data transfer
*Water resistant – the phone can be kept under 1m of water for 30 mins.
Sony Ericsson Xperia™ active will be available globally in selected markets from Q3 2011.
Sony Ericsson Xperia active at a glance.
*Please note that all services mentioned below may not be available in every market.
Colours
Orange band with black back cover – white extra cover in the kit
White band with black back cover – white extra cover in the kit
Synchronisation via Microsoft® Exchange ActiveSync®
USB mass storage
USB High speed 2.0 support
USB support
Wi-Fi®
Wi-Fi® Hotspot functionality
Wisepilot™ turn-by-turn navigation*
Display
Reality Display with Mobile BRAVIA® Engine
16,777,216 colour TFT
Capacitive touchscreen (multi-touch) with wet finger tracking
3 inches
320 x 480 pixels
Scratch-resistant mineral glass
Memory
Phone memory (user-free): Up to 320MB
Memory card support: microSD™, up to 32GB
Memory card included: 2GB microSD™
Battery life
Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 4 hrs 53 min*
Standby time GSM/GPRS: Up to 351 hrs*
Talk time UMTS: Up to 5 hrs 31 min*
Standby time UMTS: Up to 335 hrs*
Music listening time: Up to 25 hrs
Video playback time: Up to 8 hrs 30 min
*According to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique. Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configurations, and phone usage.
Networks
UMTS HSPA 900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
UMTS HSPA 800, 1900, 2100
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900
In the kit
Xperia™ active
1200mah removable battery
Sport stereo headset
Arm case
Wrist strap
2GB microsd™ memory card
Exchangeable cover
Charger
Micro USB cable for charging
Synchronisation and file transfer, and user documentation
* This service is not available in all markets. ** This feature is not pre-installed. *** Enhance your GPS navigation by for example measuring the height levels or to be used as barometer to provide you your local weather forecast.
Okay so HTC has officially announced the HTC Salsa, the phone with a dedicated Facebook button, As always we g0t the device and unboxed it for you viewing pleasure.
Check out the pictures below, and hang tight while the video is uploaded. (there were some issues and the video is being re uploaded – hang on )
Raises the bar for mobile social phones with the HTC Salsa
New Delhi, India – June 13, 2011 – HTC Corporation, a global leader in mobile innovation and design, today announced the launch of the HTC Salsa in India. The HTC Salsa is powered by the Android operating system and features HTC Sense, HTC’s unique design philosophy that focuses on putting people at the centre by making your phone work in a more simple and natural way. The phone is built entirely to be social, incorporating the simplicity, ease-of-use and depth of HTC Sense.
With the stylishly designed HTC Salsa, you can surf from one website to another with multiple browsing windows, zoom in and out of a page, and watch the text resize automatically on screen. You can merge your different email accounts together into one inbox. All the emails are color coded, so you know what’s what, and you can sort them by importance, groups or content. In keeping with its emphasis on easy social connectivity, the HTC Salsa also provides a one-touch access to the key functions of Facebook, integrated throughout the HTC Sense experience, through a dedicated Facebook button.
According to Faisal Siddiqui, Country Manager, HTC India, ““HTC has always understood that different people want different things and the new HTC Salsa offers special new ways to socialize through a mobile device. With Indians increasingly getting hooked on to the social web, we wanted to create the ultimate socially connected phone which makes this experience simple and convenient.”
The HTC Salsa offers a fast, high-performance smartphone experience. Capture the moment in high-resolution stills or video with the 5-megapixel camera and immediately share it with friends on the generous 3.4-inch, 480 x 320 resolution touch display. Upload your photos to Facebook at the touch of a button. For face-to-face conversations on the move, the VGA front-facing camera enables high-quality video calling.
Pricing & Availability
The new HTC Salsa will be available at a Market Operating Price of Rs. 22,000* at all authorized HTC resellers across the country.
* Prices may vary according to the local applicable taxes
About HTC
HTC Corporation (HTC) is one of the fastest growing companies in the mobile industry. By putting people at the center of everything it does, HTC creates innovative smartphones and tablets that better serve the lives and needs of individuals. The company is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange under ticker 2498. For more information about HTC, please visit www.htc.com.
